Veleno earns two assists in Canada win

Joe Veleno and Team Canada earned their first win of the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Cup on Tuesday in Slovakia.

Veleno recorded two assists in Canada's 5-1 victory over Finland, improving the team's record to 1-0-1. It was a strong showing for the Canadians after falling 4-3 in a shootout to Russia on Monday.



Canada scored three power play goals on Tuesday. Both of Veleno's assists came on the man advantage, setting up Calen Addison's second period goal and Jack McBain's third period marker.



Veleno, Canada's captain, now has three assists in two games at this year's tournament. He had four assists in four games last year.

Canada will play their final preliminary round game on Wednesday at 2 p.m. against Slovakia. According to the Hockey Canada website, "a win over the tournament co-hosts would send the Canadians to the semifinals on Friday."

Veleno, meanwhile, was named one of the player's to watch at this year's tournament by FanRag Sports.